The rent vs. buy debate isn’t just about personal preference - it’s about your financial strategy.

Buying a home builds equity and offers long-term stability, but it comes with major upfront costs like the down payment, closing fees, and ongoing maintenance. Renting provides flexibility and avoids those expenses, but you don’t build ownership over time.

So how do you decide? Ask yourself:

- How long will I stay? If it’s less than five years, renting may be smarter.

- Can I afford homeownership beyond the mortgage? Property taxes, repairs, and rising interest rates add up.

- What’s my opportunity cost? Could investing in a TFSA or RRSP provide better returns than homeownership in your situation?

Ultimately, it’s not just about owning property - it’s about what makes sense for your financial goals.

Life insurance is one of the most important financial tools. The key question is: Would anyone be financially impacted if something happened to you?

If you have dependents, a mortgage, or business obligations, life insurance helps ensure your loved ones aren’t left with a financial burden. It can replace lost income, cover final expenses, and provide for your family’s future.

Even if you don’t have dependents, life insurance can be a smart tool for wealth transfer and estate planning. Policies with investment components, like whole life or universal life, can help build tax-advantaged savings.

The right amount of coverage depends on your income, debts, and long-term goals. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Securing a policy early often means lower costs.

Building wealth isn’t about luck — it’s about consistency. And the formula is simpler than most people think. Spend less than you earn. Invest the difference. Do it consistently.

It starts with living below your means. That creates the gap you need to save and invest. Then, put that money to work. Whether it’s in a diversified portfolio, a retirement account, or through real estate - the key is to invest regularly and give your money time to grow.

Thanks to compound growth, even small amounts can turn into something meaningful over time. Stick with the plan, stay invested, and avoid chasing quick wins. Wealth-building is a marathon, not a sprint.

Interest rates have a big impact on the market. When rates rise, borrowing gets more expensive, slowing down businesses and consumer spending. This can put pressure on stocks and lower the value of existing bonds, since newer bonds offer higher returns.

When rates fall, borrowing gets cheaper, businesses grow, and stocks often rise. Bond prices can also increase, as older bonds with higher rates become more valuable. A diversified portfolio helps balance these ups and downs. Staying focused on your long-term goals is key.